The first variant to launch is the entry-level Mercedes-Benz GLA200 CDI, which is priced to compete with the $47,500 Audi Q3 2.0 TDI, $46,300 BMW X1 sDrive18d, and the $49,995 Land Rover Evoque eD4 Pure.

Joining the front-drive diesel variant in the coming months will be the all-wheel-drive petrol-powered $57,900 GLA250 (July) and the high-performance $79,900 GLA45 AMG (October).

Powering the GLA200 CDI (pictured) is a 2.1-litre diesel engine that produces 100kW between 3400-4000rpm and 300Nm from 1400-3000rpm. Mercedes claims a 9.9-second 0-100km/h sprint and combined cycle fuel consumption of 4.6 litres per 100km.

The GLA250’s petrol unit produces 155kW at 5500rpm and 350Nm from 1200-4000rpm, claims to reach 100km/h from rest in 7.1 seconds, and uses 7.0L/100km combined.

The ballistic GLA45 AMG’s Affalterbach-built motor delivers a whopping 265kW at 6000rpm and 450Nm between 2250-5000rpm and claims to stop the clock in 4.8 seconds after reaching triple figures.

At 4417mm long, 1804mm wide, 1494mm tall and riding on a 2699mm wheelbase, the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is, for comparison’s sake, 32mm longer, 27mm thinner and 96mm shorter in height than the Q3, as well as 96mm longer between the wheels.

Its 421-litre boot expands to 1235L with the 60:40 split-fold rear seats pushed forwards. An auto tailgate is standard across the range.

CarAdvice is at the Australian launch of the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class in Victoria this week. Stay tuned for our review, coming soon.